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Originally Posted On: https://ycicontracting.com/debunking-myths-about-general-contractors/

 

General contractors are a great resource for construction and remodeling projects, but there are many misconceptions that people have about this profession.

With this in mind, we would like to cover some of the false information circulating about the role of a contractor and what they bring to the table. By understanding the common oversights, you will be able to make a more informed decision the next time you need to hire a general contractor.

All General Contractors Are Qualified

Licensing is important in the construction industry. Without the proper training and certifications, there is a lot of room for error with a building project. That being said, there are many unlicensed or underqualified contractors out there who will try to get your business, so it always makes sense to verify the credentials of the company you hire.

Zoning laws, permits, and building codes are just some of the things that need to be considered during a typical construction or remodeling project, which is why it is necessary to work with an authoritative contractor. Hiring an unqualified contractor can come back to bite you in the form of fines or flimsy construction.

General Contracts All Provide the Same Services

While almost all general contractors share a base level of construction knowledge, there are many specializations within the field. For instance, one contractor might be better equipped for commercial jobs as opposed to residential ones. It never hurts to check out a company’s past projects and reach out to them to inquire about their background and areas of expertise.

Any General Contractor Can Deliver Quality Results

Just like any other industry, not all general contractors are created equal. Within the profession, there are many skilled professionals, but also those who are less dedicated to their craft. For this reason, it always makes sense to do some research before deciding on which contractors to work with. Online testimonials, word of mouth, and the Better Business Bureau are all great resources for determining what to expect from a contracting company.

You Can Act as a General Contractor

While many general contractors perform a lot of work themselves, they will also fill the role of project manager. A qualified general contractor will be able to keep your construction organized and utilize their network of subcontractors to assemble the right team for the job.

Taking all of this into consideration, it should be clear why having a general contractor is much more favorable than trying to take on these responsibilities yourself. Coordinating a successful project is no easy task, so don’t underestimate the value of a knowledgeable general contractor.

You Can Save a Lot of Money Buying Your Own Materials

Purchasing the raw building materials for your construction project might seem like an easy way to maximize your budget and avoid inflation, but this is rarely the case. A certified general contractor will have many years of experience and in-depth knowledge of the suppliers in the area. Oftentimes, contractors will already have solid relationships with local suppliers and will be able to get discounted prices due to the volume that they deal with.

Another thing to take into consideration is that the average property owner cannot always distinguish between sturdy and faulty products. Purchasing materials that are not appropriate for the task at hand can create additional expenses and hold up the entire project.

Contractor Quotes Can’t Be Trusted

Construction companies tend to have an unfair reputation of being unreliable with the information they provide. Whereas remodeling projects on television usually try to create drama with tight budgets and deadlines, this is rarely the case in real life.

A reputable contractor will always account for variables and use their expertise to determine an informed estimate that leaves little room for error.

The same is true for the time frame of the project. Although some projects will inevitably experience delays, professional contractors will be able to complete most of their work on or before the scheduled date.

It Is Too Expensive to Hire Contractors for Small Jobs

Many people incorrectly believe that it is not worth it to hire a general contractor for a single task, such as painting. Although it is true that you can save some money upfront by trying to handle minor jobs yourself, you will not always be able to guarantee the same quality results that a professional contractor can.

Minor tasks can often be completed at a reasonable price, and when you factor in the potential savings from having to perform repairs or redo the work, then hiring a professional doesn’t seem like such a bad deal.

Your Contractor will Need Constant Oversight

Making sure your construction or renovations stay true to your vision is important, but this is actually one of the main benefits of hiring a certified general contractor. A good contractor will take the time to understand your goals for the project and make sure everyone is on the same page.

Once your general contractor sees the full picture, you can be hands-off for the remainder of the project. You have nothing to worry about, and they will make sure to keep you updated about the progress of the job.

General Contractors Are Not Friendly

General contractors tend to have a bad reputation for being hard to work with. While we can’t speak for all contractors, we can confidently say that there are many construction professionals who put a lot of emphasis on their client experience.

When you think about it, construction is actually much more of a “people” business than it originally appears. Contractors are expected to work as part of a team and communicate with clients, designers, and more. The average building company will work hard to accommodate your needs and treat you with respect throughout the entire process, so you should never settle for a contractor that does not respect you or your property.

Speak with a General Contractor Today

If you are in the market for a licensed general contractor, YCI INC. is a great place to start. Reach out to us at (757) 871-8691 for more information on what we can do for you.